ISC Exam Questions

What is the effective key size of DES?

What is the effective key size of DES?

A.
56 bits

B.
64 bits

C.
128 bits

D.
1024 bits

Explanation:
DES makes use of a 64-bit key, of which 56 bits represents the true key, and the remaining 8 bits are used for
parity.
Incorrect Answers:
B: DES does make use of a 64-bit key, but the effective key size is 56 bits.
C: International Data Encryption Algorithm (IDEA) produces key that is 128 bits long.
D: RC5 support variable-length key sizes ranging from 0-2040.

Harris, Shon, All In One CISSP Exam Guide, 6th Edition, McGraw-Hill, 2013, pp. 800, 809, 810